it recognizes both farming business practices and community involvement. “You don’t get many pats on the back in this business, so it was nice to be recognized,” says Markert. The award was fitting, as farming, and the seed business in particular, is truly a family affair for the Markerts. Louise, Ron’s wife of 36 years, is an integral part of the seed operation, and son Lee and his wife Lindsay are partners. While daughter Danielle and son-in-law Shawn work on the farm at Del Bonita, Danielle also works for Monsanto and does crop inspections in her off time. Her younger sister Beth is a seed growth specialist for Bayer CropScience. Family Values One issue that Markert, his family and his colleagues must deal with in the near future is value creation. In 2015, amendments to the Plant Breeders' Rights Act were enacted that impact how the plant breeding system in Canada can be funded. “Right now when I sell seed, there is a one-time royalty in that cost which I pay back to the plant breeder, but sometimes people distribute seed to other growers even though that is prohibited,” notes Markert. “The amendments may mean that the royalty is collected on the harvested seed instead and collected every year rather than upfront. That means that everyone who uses the seed would pay for it. For example, instead of the initial buyer paying say $2 per bushel on certified seed, it may become 10 cents per bushel every year on your harvested production. This approach would balance out the cost for the industry.” At present, Canada hasn’t decided what route to go on the royalty collection, as it must be negotiated with all producers, commissions and seed growers. “This will be one of the industry’s biggest issues going forward. If we don’t get it right, we could have a huge mess that will be with us forever. I urge everyone in the seed industry and all producers to pay close attention to this matter.” Follow the Leader It is challenges like this that has driven Markert to be so active in his industry, and he encourages others to do the same. “Sitting on these boards has taken me from one end of Canada to the other. I would encourage young people in the business to get involved with the ASG, CSGA or other boards. It’s a great opportunity to really understand how the seed business works in Canada and around the world, and to grasp the key issues.” If it sounds like he’s getting ready to pass the torch, there may be some truth to that. “Louise and I are going to slow down a bit now and do more travelling while our son runs the business. You never know when the maker will take you; at some point you have to stop and smell the roses.” Geoff Geddes Ron Markert 20 www.seed.ab.ca | Advancing Seed in Alberta www.2020seedlabs.ca 20/20 Seed Labs: Fully accredited and independently owned seed testing laboratory offering a wide range of seed quality services. 1.877.420.2099 7.420.2099 7